SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) — The huge milestone at Nathan Benderson Park brings back to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the high school Youth National Championship.
The internationally famous three-day regatta concluded on Sunday.
“It’s amazing for the community, both Manatee and Sarasota counties. We’ll take about 15,000 rowers, parents and friends to the race,” said NBP Chairman Michael Tuff.
During this high stakes competition, the country’s top rosers showed off their skills.
“All of these athletes competed in this championship in May throughout the season, then at regional championships, then at youth nationals, and we now have the fastest young athletes in the country,” said Sarah Makoliff of Usrowing.
Sports are becoming more and more popular. This year, Usrowing hosts a new competition, the first Youth Beach Sprint National Championships at Lido Key Beach, giving fans a sneak peak ahead of its 2028 Olympic debut.
“They’re going to go to the sea, so we run a few metres, sprint on the boat, get on the boat and wrap it around 250 metres, dock the boat, then go back on the sand and hit the button.
Fans and athletes say Benderson has become the elite place for row competitions. Orlando-based row maker Chasey Kozak says her team uses Benderson frequently.
“This is like our home course. We race here. We’re here. We’re so lucky to have this Olympic racecourse, the best racecourse in the country, because we’re here for the majority of the races this season,” Kozak said.
Taaffe says he hopes Benderson will host all the world championships here in the future.
“As the best amateur event in Florida, I won this year’s award at last year’s event, the same event last year,” Taaffe said.
Click here for results from the Usrrowing Youth National Championships.
